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Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis - Overview

Alternative Names

Periodic paralysis - thyrotoxic

Definition of Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis:

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is a condition in which there are episodes of muscle weakness in people with high levels of thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism, thyrotoxicosis).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is a rare condition that occurs only in people with high thyroid hormone levels (thyrotoxicosis). It is seen most commonly in Asian men.

There is a similar disorder, hypokalemic periodic paralysis (familial periodic paralysis). This is an inherited condition and does not have high thyroid levels.

Risk factors include a family history of periodic paralysis and hyperthyroidism.

  • Reviewed last on: 4/20/2010
  • Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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